Cool Girls, Big Voices
Podcasting Workshop at McNair Middle:
Hear the Cool Girls’ Trailer!
The Power of Voice
On Wednesday, March 12, I had the joy of leading a podcasting workshop with an amazing group of students at McNair Middle School. This opportunity came through Science ATL’s Imagining Futures Day, and I’m so glad they connected me with the team at Cool Girls. From the moment I arrived, I could feel their excitement and energy—perfect ingredients for a great podcasting session.
I brought along my own professional recording equipment so they could get a real sense of what it’s like to create a polished show. And these Cool Girls showed up ready to work! They listened thoughtfully to each other’s ideas, offered feedback, and worked as a team to vote on the concept they felt best represented them. By the end of our session, they had brainstormed, written, recorded, and edited a full group podcast trailer. It’s not a real show yet, but there’s definitely plenty of promise for Cool Girls @ McNair Middle to take over the mic one day!
Beyond the Mic: Building a Media Team
Most students had a chance to get behind the mic, but we also had a few step into new roles as behind-the-scenes (BTS) content creators. Two students took on the challenge of capturing photos and video of the workshop in action—interviewing their classmates and the adults in the room, asking about the experience, and documenting the fun moments throughout the day.
They had a blast! And they captured some amazing footage that really tells the story of what it’s like to create a podcast from scratch. It was awesome to watch them take ownership of the process and see their excitement as they switched between reporter, photographer, and videographer roles.
Why Podcasting?
The Power of Voice
Podcasting gives anyone with a story the power to share it—and be heard. I wanted the girls to understand just how many people are listening to podcasts and how they can be part of that conversation.
I told them about my podcasts where I have roles as a host, producer, and/or writer.
Did You Know?
More than 460 million people listen to podcasts worldwide.
In the U.S., 1 in 3 people listen to podcasts every month.
Podcasts can be about anything—science, music, life, or their own experiences.
From Idea to Trailer
We kicked things off by brainstorming together: What’s important to you? What do you want people to know?
The girls shared their ideas, voted as a team, and settled on one concept to move forward with.
From there, we wrote a group script, and most students had a chance to step up to the mic. They practiced voice delivery and got a feel for what it’s like to record in a professional setup. We worked together to record, edit, and polish a 1-minute podcast trailer.
At the same time, our BTS crew was capturing behind-the-scenes content—conducting interviews, snapping photos, and helping tell the story of our day from a totally different perspective.
What’s Next for These Young Podcasters?
This was just the beginning! The Cool Girls at McNair now have the skills and tools to take their audio production ideas even further. Whether it’s starting their own show or taking on more media projects, I can’t wait to see where they go next.
Ready to Start Your Own Podcast?
If you’re interested in creating your own podcast—or want to sharpen the one you’ve already started—I offer podcast production support and coaching. Whether you’re just starting or looking to level up, I’ll help you develop your concept, refine your message, and make your voice heard.
Thank You
A huge thank you to Cool Girls and McNair Middle School for welcoming me into their community. I had a blast working with these brilliant young minds!
👋 Leave Them Some Love!
The Cool Girls at McNair Middle worked hard to create their very first podcast trailer—brainstorming, writing, recording, and editing in just one afternoon! If you enjoyed listening, drop an uplifting comment below to let them know.